Assistive Technology Act Timeline
History of the AT Act
2022: 3rd Tech Act Reauthorization
The 21st Century Assistive Technology Act reauthorized the program, updating and modernizing its provisions to better serve individuals with disabilities.
2004: 2nd Tech Act Reauthorization and Expansion
Significant changes converted the program from a competitive grant to a formula grant, ensuring consistent funding for all states and
1998: 1st Tech Act Reauthorization
The Assistive Technology Act reauthorized the program, continuing support for state efforts to improve the provision of assistive technology to
1994: Tech Act Amendments
Amendments shifted the focus to systems change activities, emphasizing policy advocacy and technical assistance to improve access to assistive technology.
1988: The Assistive Technology Act
The Technology-Related Assistance Act, known as the “Tech Act,” was enacted to help states develop consumer-responsive, statewide programs of technology-related
Critical Disability Events in History
2021: 21st Century AT Act 4th reauthorization
The 21st Century Assistive Technology Act was introduced and continues to expand the focus on technology innovation, ensuring access to
2010: 21st Century Communication and Video Accessibility Act
The Twenty-First Century Communications and Video Accessibility Act mandates accessibility in modern communications.
2008: The ADAAA
The ADA Amendments Act (ADAAA) expands the definition of disability to cover more individuals.
2004: AT Act third reauthorization
The AT Act was reauthorized again, simplifying program requirements and emphasizing direct services for individuals with disabilities.
1999: Olmstead v. L.C.
The Olmstead v. L.C. Supreme Court decision rules that unnecessary institutionalization of individuals with disabilities is a form of discrimination.
1998: AT Act second reauthorization
A major reauthorization transitioned the Act into the Assistive Technology Act of 1998. This reauthorization focused on supporting state programs.
1994: AT Act first reauthorization
The first reauthorization added provisions for funding AT services and allowed for broader program implementation.
1990: The ADA passed
The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) becomes law, ensuring civil rights protections in employment, public accommodations, and more.
1988: AT Act passed
The Assistive Technology Act (Tech Act) is passed, increasing access to AT for individuals with disabilities.
1977: 504 sit-in
The 504 Sit-In at the Department of Health, Education, and Welfare lasts for 28 days, the longest occupation of a federal building in U.S. history.
1975: IDEA passed
The Education for All Handicapped Children Act (later the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act, or IDEA) guarantees a free, appropriate public education for children with disabilities.
1973: Section 504 passed
Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act is passed, prohibiting discrimination based on disability in federally funded programs.
1972: Center for Independent Living
The first Center for Independent Living (CIL) is established in Berkeley, California, empowering people with disabilities to live independently.
1965: Medicaid and Medicare
Medicaid and Medicare are established, offering critical health services for individuals with disabilities.
1943: The Vocational Rehab Act
The Vocational Rehabilitation Act is amended to include individuals with psychiatric disabilities.
1935: Social Security Act
The Social Security Act provides benefits for the elderly and people with disabilities.
1920: Smith-Fess Act
Passage of the Smith-Fess Act, establishing the federal-state vocational rehabilitation system for individuals with disabilities.